Does your garage door seem to be lagging or making unusual sounds when opening and closing? While it might be tempting to overlook these warning signs, a broken garage door spring could be the underlying cause, and ignoring it can lead to major problems. A malfunctioning spring doesn’t just affect the door’s performance; it can also create serious safety risks and expensive repair costs. 

In this post, we’ll explore the dangers of neglecting a broken spring in a garage door and why timely garage door spring repair is crucial for your home’s safety and functionality.

What is a Garage Door Spring?

Before understanding the consequences of a broken garage door spring, it’s important first to understand what these springs do. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door, while extension springs are located along the tracks on either side of the door. Both springs use tension to lift the heavy door, making it easier to open and close.

These springs are under immense pressure and are designed to last for a specific number of cycles. A cycle refers to one complete opening and closing of the garage door. Over time, the springs can wear out, stretch, or break due to constant use.

The Risks of Ignoring a Broken Garage Door Spring

A damaged garage door spring may initially appear to be a small problem, but neglecting it can result in a number of issues. Here’s what happens when you delay or ignore garage door spring repair:

The Risks of Ignoring a Broken Garage Door Spring

1. Increased Wear and Tear on Other Components

When a garage door spring breaks, the door’s weight no longer has proper support. This means other components, such as the cables, pulleys, and motor, must work harder to compensate for the lack of spring tension. As a result, these parts will experience increased strain and can wear out faster. Ignoring the broken spring may lead to more parts failing, creating a domino effect that results in more expensive repairs down the line.

2. Inability to Open or Close the Door

One of the most immediate effects of a broken spring is that the door will become difficult or completely impossible to open. The spring helps lift the door’s weight, so it may be stuck in place when broken. In some cases, the door may fall abruptly due to the loss of tension in the spring, which can be dangerous for anyone nearby.

3. Risk of Personal Injury

A broken garage door spring can be a safety hazard. These springs are under extreme tension, and when they break, they can snap with significant force. This can cause injury to anyone standing nearby, whether it’s from the snapping spring itself or the door suddenly falling. To avoid injury, it’s best to immediately address a broken spring and seek professional help from garage door experts.

4. Damage to Your Garage Door

When the spring breaks, the door may become unbalanced. This imbalance can cause the door to lean to one side, putting excessive stress on the tracks, rollers, and other system parts. Over time, this stress can cause permanent damage to your garage door, making it more difficult and costly to repair. By neglecting garage door maintenance, you risk further damage that could ultimately require a full door replacement.

5. Higher Repair Costs

Delaying garage door spring repair can lead to higher repair costs. As mentioned earlier, a broken spring can cause other components to fail due to added strain. This means that if you ignore the issue, you may need more extensive repairs than if you had promptly addressed the broken spring. Additionally, the longer you wait, the more the door’s operation can be affected, making the repair more complicated and expensive.

Why You Should Call Garage Door Experts

If you suspect that your garage door spring is broken, it’s crucial to call experts immediately. Professionals are trained to handle spring repairs safely and effectively, ensuring your garage door operates again smoothly. Attempting a DIY repair can be risky due to the high tension in the springs, and improper handling can lead to further damage.

Professional garage door experts can also provide regular garage door maintenance Omaha services, ensuring that your springs and other components are in good working condition. Preventative maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your garage door and prevent future breakdowns.

Why You Should Call Garage Door Experts

How to Tell If You Have a Broken Garage Door Spring

Not sure if your garage door spring is broken? Here are some common signs to look for:

1. The door won’t open or close: If you press the garage door opener and the door doesn’t budge, it could be due to a broken spring.

2. The door appears unbalanced. If one side of the door is higher than the other, a spring has likely broken.

3. The door moves very slowly: A malfunctioning spring can cause the door to open and close more slowly than usual.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional for garage door spring repair. At Titan Garage Doors NE we specialize in garage door maintenance and repair. Our team of experts can help fix your broken garage door spring and provide ongoing maintenance to keep your garage door in top condition. Don’t wait for the problem to worsen—contact us today for reliable, professional garage door services!

Conclusion

In conclusion, ignoring a broken spring is never a good idea. It can lead to many issues, including increased wear on other components, safety hazards, and higher repair costs. If you notice any signs of a broken spring, it’s important to address the problem immediately. Calling garage door experts for spring repair will save you money in the long run and assure that your garage door remains safe and functional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How long do garage door springs last?

Ans. Depending on usage and maintenance, garage door springs typically last 7 to 10 years. If your garage door is used frequently, the springs may wear out faster.

Q2. Can I repair a broken garage door spring myself?

Ans. Due to the high tension in the springs, it’s highly recommended not to attempt DIY spring repair. It can be dangerous, and it’s best to leave the repair to professionals.

Q3. How can I prevent my garage door springs from breaking?

Ans. Regular garage door maintenance is key to preventing broken springs. Inspections, lubrication, and timely repairs will help extend the lifespan of your springs and other components.